Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Backyard Poultry Affects 34 Across 13 States The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning about a salmonella outbreak linked to backyard poultry, with 34 people across 13 states reported sickened by the same strain of the bacteria. Thirteen individuals were hospitalized, though no deaths have been reported as of April 29, 2026. The outbreak highlights the risks associated with handling backyard poultry, such as chickens and ducks, even when the animals appear healthy. The CDC emphasized that these birds can carry salmonella without showing signs of illness, making prevention measures critical to avoid infection. The outbreak spans multiple states, with Michigan reporting the highest number of cases. The CDC has mapped the affected regions, though specific details about the distribution of cases were not provided in the initial report. The agency stressed that salmonella can spread through contact with poultry, their eggs, or contaminated surfaces, and that improper hand hygiene is a primary risk factor. People who touch backyard poultry or their environment and then eat without washing their hands are at risk of contracting the infection. To prevent salmonella infections, the CDC recommends several precautions. Individuals should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and clean water for 20 seconds after handling poultry, collecting eggs, or touching any items in their environment. Dedicated footwear should be used when working in coops, and these shoes should never be brought indoors. Bird supplies, such as feed and waterers, should be kept outside the home to minimize contamination risks. Supervision of children is also crucial, as young children are particularly vulnerable.#michigan #cdc #salmonella #backyard_poultry #cdc_cdc
Costco Recalls Meal Kit Over Salmonella Concerns Costco has issued a recall for a meal kit containing Meatloaf with Mashed Yukon Potatoes and Glaze due to potential salmonella contamination. The recall notice stated that the product, identified by Item #30783, is being recalled because an ingredient supplier, Griffith Foods Inc., has initiated a recall of an ingredient used in the meal. The supplier cited the potential for contamination with Salmonella, prompting Costco to take action. The affected meal kits have sell-by dates ranging from March 5 to March 16. These products were distributed to Costco locations across 26 states, including California, as well as Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Customers who purchased the meal kit are advised not to consume it and are encouraged to return it for a full refund. Costco expressed regret for the inconvenience caused by the recall. The company emphasized that no illnesses have been reported as a result of the recalled product. Salmonella infections can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, headache, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These symptoms typically appear six hours to six days after infection and usually last four to seven days. The CDC also noted that infections can be particularly severe in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems, who may require hospitalization. Costco’s recall notice serves as a precautionary measure to ensure consumer safety, highlighting the importance of adhering to food safety guidelines. The Associated Press contributed to this report.#costco #cdc #salmonella #griffith_foods_inc #associated_press

Costco Recalls Meatloaf Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination Costco has issued a recall for its Meatloaf with Mashed Yukon Potatoes and Glaze after determining the product may be contaminated with salmonella. The recall affects items sold between March 2 and March 13, with sell-by dates ranging from March 5 to March 16. The affected products are marked with item number #30783 and were distributed to Costco locations across 49 states, including Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Washington, D.C., Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, and Wisconsin. The recall was prompted by a similar action taken by Griffith Foods Inc., a supplier of an ingredient used in the meatloaf. Costco stated that no injuries or illnesses have been reported as a result of the potential contamination. However, the company urged consumers to avoid eating any recalled products and to return them to their local Costco for a full refund. Salmonella, a bacterial infection, can cause severe illness in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. According to the Mayo Clinic, the bacteria typically reside in the intestines of animals and humans and are spread through contaminated food or water. Most healthy individuals recover within a few days to a week without specific treatment, though some may experience symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps within 8 to 72 hours of exposure. The recall highlights the ongoing challenges of food safety in the industry, as similar incidents have been reported across other retailers.#food_safety #costco #griffith_foods_inc #salmonella #meatloaf